What We Know Concerning the Those Lost of the Bondi Beach Terror Attack
At least 16 lives lost their lives and in excess of 40 sustained injuries when gunmen shot at a Hanukah gathering at Bondi Beach, an incident Australian authorities are describing as a act of terrorism.
As of the newest reports, officials have stated the number of fatalities stands at 16, encompassing one of the alleged gunmen. Furthermore, 42 injured people were admitted to the hospital.
The deceased have not yet been publicly named, but police believe their ages range from 10 and 87 years of age.
Listed are the individuals who have been identified to date.
Eli Schlanger
London-born rabbi Eli Schlanger, 41, was initially identified.
Described as a father-of-five, he served as the associate rabbi at Chabad of Bondi. Family members and acquaintances remembered him as “vivacious, energetic, full of life and a very warm outgoing person who was dedicated to assisting others”.
“How is it possible that a joyful rabbi who went to a beach to spread happiness and light, to make the world a better place, meet his end in this way?” a family member said.
Schlanger and his wife had recently celebrated the birth of their youngest child in October.
Alexander Kleytman
Alexander Kleytman was also confirmed among the deceased, according to his wife.
She recounted the events before the shooting, stating they were standing when the gunfire erupted. “He shielded me because he wished to be near me,” she recalled.
The husband and wife were both Holocaust survivors, having faced unspeakable terror in their youth. They had later immigrated to Australia from Ukraine.
Dan Elkayam
The French authorities have announced that French man Dan Elkayam is among the dead.
Officially, the Foreign Minister declared that France stood with his family and loved ones, the Jewish community, and the Australian people.
“This low act is a new, tragic manifestation of a disgusting rise of antisemitic hatred that we must combat,” the message continued.
One Child
A 10-year-old girl who was taken to the Sydney Children’s Hospital succumbed to her injuries, police have confirmed.
One Israeli Citizen
An Israeli citizen was a fatality during the attack, as per multiple sources citing the Israeli government.
Those Injured
From the 42 people transported to hospital, many remain receiving treatment, with several in serious condition. The injured comprise two police officers who attended the scene.
A casualty is a member of the public who rushed to the scene to confront one of the gunmen. Described as a hero, he sustained gunshot wounds but is expected to recover in hospital.
Arsen Ostrovsky
One of those wounded is Arsen Ostrovsky, a community leader. It has been reported he was wounded and underwent treatment in hospital.
Communicating, he described the scene as an “absolute bloodbath,” but also noted the actions of those who came to assist. He said he felt it was a “miracle” he survived.
Evan Zlatkis
Evan Zlatkis, a media director, was also injured in the attack. He said he heard “dozens and dozens” of shots.
“I thought it was rubber bullets, but it penetrated my own skin and into my leg,” he said. “I was hit. They bandaged me up. I’m ok.”